An enforcement operation by development control officials in Sabon Lugbe, Abuja, turned chaotic on Wednesday when soldiers allegedly acting on the orders of a senior army general (name withheld) intervened violently to prevent the removal of illegal structures.
The officials were reportedly executing a directive to demolish the fence of a building on Plot 416, which is said to belong to the major general. What followed was a tense standoff involving threats, physical altercations, and property damage, leaving several enforcement team members shaken.
Eyewitness Account of the Incident
A representative from the development control department described the ordeal in detail:
“During the operation at Plot 416 in Sabon Lugbe, owned by the major general, we were confronted by soldiers who had been informed of our activities. The general sent two soldiers to the location to assess the situation, and upon arrival, they escalated matters.”
The soldiers reportedly arrived in a vehicle with covered number plates, blocking the exit to prevent the officials from leaving. One of the soldiers, identified as Private Jamilu (surname unknown), became aggressive, allegedly threatening lethal force.
“He approached the caterpillar operator, cocked his rifle, and demanded that the driver exit the vehicle or face being shot. When the operator complied, the soldier and his colleague grabbed him by the neck, beat him, and tore his shirt,” the official recounted.
Private Jamilu is also alleged to have shot out all four tires of the caterpillar being used in the demolition operation.
Call for Reinforcements
The soldiers reportedly contacted the major general, who arrived at the scene with additional reinforcements. According to witnesses, the situation further deteriorated as the soldiers detained the caterpillar operator, a site officer, and six other enforcement officials.
“They were taken to the general’s house and held hostage for hours. Even outside the premises, the soldiers continued to assault them,” the official said.
The soldiers also allegedly targeted the enforcement team’s vehicles, shooting out the tires of those they could access.
Police Involvement
The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Trademore Division was reportedly alerted to the situation and arrived at the scene. However, witnesses claim that the major general refused to acknowledge her presence or respond to her intervention. The DPO left, stating she would return later.
Implications and Next Steps
This incident raises serious questions about the rule of law and the use of military resources in civilian matters. It also highlights the challenges enforcement officials face in executing their duties, particularly when powerful individuals attempt to obstruct legal processes.
At the time of this report, neither the Nigerian Army nor the development control department has released an official statement regarding the incident. It remains unclear what measures, if any, will be taken to address the actions of the soldiers and their commanding officer.
Call for Accountability
The incident underscores the importance of enforcing laws without interference and ensuring that all citizens, regardless of status or position, are held accountable. Advocacy groups have called for an impartial investigation to determine the facts and to prevent future occurrences.
As investigations proceed, many Nigerians are watching closely, hoping for justice and a reaffirmation of the principles of law and order.
